Warne in 'psychologist' jibe at Proteas

Australian leg spinner Shane Warne says South Africa may need their team psychologist following the upcoming three-Test series, which begins at the WACA ground in Perth on Friday.

Referring to South Africa's plans to fly corporate psychologist Francois Hugo from Johannesburg to motivate the players before the first Test, Warne said it might be a good idea.

"They might need one by the time we've finished with them," he said.

There is little love lost between the two Test nations and South Africa are aiming to regain some lost pride, having failed to beat Australia in a Test series since being readmitted to international cricket in 1991.

Warne is a particular concern for the visitors, who seldom have to face such a formidable spinner in their own country.

He has an excellent Test record against the Proteas, having taken 101 wickets at an average of 22.35 against them.

South Africa have also rankled the Australians by claiming the number one ranked team in the world repeatedly use sledging to upset and distract their opponents.

Batsman Herschelle Gibbs said last week the players had come to expect such tactics from Australia and would think something was wrong if they were not sledged.

"The South Africans have had a bit too much to say, they should worry about their own backyard, get (it) in order first," Warne said.

Warne, who has recovered from recent back soreness, said he was looking forward to the first Test even though the WACA Ground is not known for taking spin.

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